Village hall and shop plan for village despite fears

PLANS for a village hall, shop and nine houses have been approved – against council officers’ recommendations.

NE Derbyshire District Council approved the application for Wessington despite fears about developing a green field site.

During the meeting in the council chamber on Tuesday, residents spoke in favour of the scheme which will see the site, off Matlock Road, transformed.

Villagers said a shop within walking distance and a space for the village to hold community events was needed.

But officers raised concerns that the development was out-of-keeping for the area.

Parish councillor Alex Fisher said the site had been ‘gifted’ to the community but there was no guarantee the village hall and shop would be built unless villagers raised the money.

He added: “This is not supported by the parish council. It contravenes at least eight planning policies

“Residents have been trying for 20 years to raise money for a village hall.”

But councillors said the scheme would give the village some much-needed facilities.

Three affordable houses and six properties for market sale are also set to be built. The hall will provide room for a play group, youth club, internet facilities, keep fit classes and hire space for parties.